Vistry Group has launched the UK’s first Timber Frame Installer Programme, a pioneering initiative developed by Vistry Works, Vistry’s manufacturing arm, in collaboration with Future Talent and T3 Training & Development. This marks a major step forward in addressing the construction industry’s skills shortage and advancing modern, sustainable housebuilding.
The programme was introduced during a special Open Evening hosted at Vistry Works East Midlands, one of the company’s three manufacturing facilities, where Vistry’s 15 new trainees and their guests were invited to attend an introduction evening ahead of their apprenticeship journey. The event featured a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility—including the new second shift in action—a visit to the Vistry Innovation Centre, Vistry’s sector-leading facility incorporating cutting-edge technologies, and an introduction to the Future Works technical innovation project.
A standout moment came from Ben Forster, a Vistry Site Manager, who shared his inspiring journey from Apprentice Joiner to Construction Manager, highlighting the career potential within the industry.
Delivered from a dedicated training site in Barnsley, the programme provides trainees with hands-on experience and a nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification through Barnsley College. Trainees will be based across Vistry’s sites in Yorkshire, Cheshire, and Leicestershire, working alongside Vistry’s own erectors and subcontractors within their region. This structure lays the foundation for long-term career growth and supports the development of in-house expertise.
Danica McLean, Group People Director, Vistry Group, said: “At Vistry, we know that meeting the UK’s housing targets requires not only innovation in construction, but also investment in people. Our new Timber Frame programme will equip colleagues with the skills and confidence to deliver modern, sustainable homes at pace, whilst creating rewarding career pathways across the business.”
With ambitious government housing targets and sustainability driving industry transformation, Vistry is investing in in-house expertise to stay ahead. Through strategic partnerships with CITB, HBF and the Structural Timber Association (STA), and active collaboration with policymakers, Vistry aims to become the UK’s leading employer in timber frame provision.
This initiative forms part of a wider intake of 49 new apprentices, including RISE trainees and Pathway graduates, who began their journey with Vistry at the beginning of September 2025.